This paper presents a meta-theoretical perspective for looking at change and stability in close personal relationships. The theoretical conception of interpesonal relationships is summarized in an intial section, emphasizing interpersonal influence in specific interactive sequences. Next, a five-phase conception of relationship development is outlined and described including (1) acquaintance with another person; (2) buildup of mutual relationship; (3) continuation or consolidation of the relationship; (4) deterioration or decline; and (5) ending, either voluntary or involuntary. This perspective on relationship development is applied to two of the phases, pair buildup and couple maintenance, including a discussion of several "filtering" models of courtship or mate selection. The role of children in changing relationships and role perceptions is considered and the model is summarized as a circular loop conception of close relationships influenced by personality and environment. A graphic presentation of the circular loop model is appended. (JAC)